Farzana Pashankar

Dr. Farzana Pashankar is a Professor of Pediatrics (Hematology/Oncology) at Yale School of Medicine, specializing in pediatric hematology-oncology with a focus on sickle cell disease and solid tumors. She serves as Fellowship Director of the Pediatric Hematology & Oncology Program, Director of the Solid Tumor Program, and Children's Oncology Group (COG) Site PI. Her roles include leadership in clinical trials, disease-aligned research teams, and educational programs.

Dr. Pashankar’s education includes an MBBS and MD from the University of Pune, India, and postgraduate training in the UK and North America. She joined Yale in 2005 and has contributed to groundbreaking research in sickle cell disease complications, pulmonary hypertension, and clinical trial development for germ cell tumors and rare cancers.

Her research interests span sickle cell disease management, including quality improvement projects to reduce hospitalizations, and advancements in germ cell tumor treatment protocols. She chairs international trials through COG and collaborates with global consortia to refine therapies and reduce chemotherapy use where possible.

Dr. Pashankar has received multiple awards, including the Howard A. Pearson Teaching Award and recognition for her work in pediatric oncology. She actively engages in clinical trials (e.g., P3BEP, AGCT1531) and translational research to improve patient outcomes and reduce treatment-related morbidity.

Her scientific contributions include over 90 peer-reviewed publications, focusing on genetic associations in sickle cell complications, clinical trial outcomes, and consensus guidelines for rare tumors. She leads initiatives addressing social determinants of health in sickle cell patients and advocates for equity in pediatric oncology care.